Jim and Jessica..... Thanks for such great replys, and you are both absolutely right, regarding that I left out adoption. Thinking back, I didn't mention the Guardianship stuff either. I've lately been researching the NC genweb site, and discovered another possibility that is transcribed on some of their county sites. I can't remember the exact terminology used there (bastardy cases?), but there are some transcriptions where women who became pregnant were ordered by the court to show up and name the father of their baby, so that he could be made financially responsible, regarding the unborn child. Sometimes this happened after the child was born, but it wasn't unusual if it happened before the birth...especially if the woman had no other means of support. Some of the surnames I'm researching showed up there...on both sides of the court, either as the woman or the father. Sadly, I could find nothing I could link to at this point in my research. Maybe later....so I didn't put this in my post either. Forgive me please for saving it for last. Can only figure that we all wish to think the best of our ancestors, but when you enter DNA research, you'd rather have facts and correct answers and accept the fact that what you though "was", sometimes insn't. I have one exact match at 37 on our Powell page, and 4 others at 67 with other surnames. David Smith....I agree! We're gonna ride this bull or have steak for dinner!! I love seeing input like Jim and Jessica added to our postings. YDNA research will aid us all, but it's still up to all of us to make connections and do research on our own to bring it together. Jim Barrett, thank you again for all you do. Sue in KY **************Make your life easier with all your friends, email, and favorite sites in one place. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000010)